GIORNATA

Few California wineries can rival Giornata’s equilibrium of value and quality. This is an estate where sustainable farming practices translate into some of the state’s most delicious and food-friendly wines, at consumer-friendly prices.

PEOPLE

After a stint at Isole e Olena in Chianti Classico, Brian Terrizzi studied winemaking at Fresno State where he met his wife Stephanie, one of Paso Robles’ most esteemed grape growers. They founded Giornata in 2007 with the simple premise of making wines in the style of their Italian heritage. The growing practices and winemaking mirror European traditions.

VINEYARDS

Their Luna Matta vineyard is a microcosm of California viticulture nestled in the back hills of Paso Robles’ Adelaida sub-AVA. 242 acres of clay loam over limestone host a smattering of commonplace and obscure French and Italian grape varieties, walnut and olive trees, while the remaining acreage is devoted to trees and brush. Biodiversity is paramount for Stephanie Terrizzi.

WINES

The Campo Rosso 2015 (DAILY WINE), a blend of Sangiovese, Aglianico, and Barbera, delivers excellent freshness on the nose and delicious light and dark red fruits on the palate. But it’s the restrained alcohol that really makes it a stand out among value-driven wines in California today. The Sangiovese 2014 delivers notes of leather and tobacco against the red cherry and red flowers. The Aglianico 2014 offers dark fruits like plum, bramble, and fig, accompanied by a prevalent vein of licorice.